Tuesday, August 7, 2012

Tips of how to handle the heat

Hello my friends

I hope you are still enjoying all the activities and festivities that summer offers to us.

Temperatures have been in the 90's and 100's. When we have some rain showers, for a short time the temperatures drop but then they go right back up. This is especially hazardous to your health because the high humidity. When high temperatures come, our body sweats to cool itself off. But when the humidity is also high, it interferes with sweating and this can cause our body to heat up to an unhealthy level.

The heat has been incredibly overwhelming some days and, as temperatures continue to climb, it is important for all of us to be cautious of the effects of prolongued exposure to hot weather.

Here are some tips of how to handle the heat:

Take frequent breaks from outdoor activities.- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and a hat. Don't stay up in the sun too long. Minimize exposuree to the sun by finding a shaded area outside or relaxing in an air conditioned room.

Stay Hydrated.- Drink plenry ow water. People can become dehydrated and not even know it. Remember, it is important to stay hydrated but avoid sodas and caffeinated beverages when you can.

Remember that your sweating and thirst may be unreliable because of the high humidity. Drink water at regular intervals whether you are thirsty or not. If you wait until you feel thirst, you may have waited too long.

In addition to drinking water, spray yourself with a spray bottle of water or wipe your face and neck with a wet cloth. Wetting your skin helps to cool it off and aids in the evaporation process that is caused by sweat. Let the kids play.....

In case of an emergency.- Symptoms to look for in case of exhaustion or heat stroke are: fatigue, vomiting, dizziness, lethargy, lack of sweating, confusion, and headache. If you or someone near you are experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.